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Health Tips / Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Diagnosis and Symptoms

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is compression of the medial nerve as it passes through the wrist. It is often confused with Repetitive Strain Injuries. Symptoms include hand and wrist pain, numbness and as pins and needles along the middle of the hand. Shaking the hand will give some relief and restore normal feeling to the hand. While there is often no underlying cause associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it can be sometimes associated with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or hypothyroidism and can worsened if there is oedema during pregnancy.

It has been found that activities which require repeated use and extension of the wrist such as keyboard use can aggravate the condition. Computer-workers were found to be almost 9 times more likely to suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. While both men and women can suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, women aged between 30 and 50 years are more likely to suffer.

Non-prescription treatments

Wearing a lightweight wrist splint, especially at night for a few weeks can often treat the problem.

Modifications of computer use and typing technique can be very effective. These should include using the correct typing technique. The wrists should not be bent but kept straight, during breaks the wrists should not be rested on the keyboard but by your side, and using light pressure and less keyboard strokes and mouse movements.

Some studies have found additional doses of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to be effective in certain cases.

Mild analgesics such as paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen can help relieve the pain associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In severe cases your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids injections to be administered to the affected area.

For serious injury always consult your doctor or physiotherapist. To find a Chartered Physiotherapist in your area check www.cppp.ie